Chapter 22: From All Sides - Lemuel

“LEMUEL!” I hear a panic-filled voice that sets my nerves on fire.

I look up to see Sebastian in nothing but shorts, running down the hall flanked by two armoured guards. His steps falter when he sees the butchery laid out before him. Colour drains from his face and tears fill his cerulean eyes and my heart clenches in pain for him. His eyes frantically look up searching for something and fill with relief when they see me. He runs at me and throws his dripping-wet body at me, wrapping me tightly in his arms. I momentarily freeze like a deer in headlights, but it wears off as I feel my body come to life from the electricity brought by his touch. He’s holding me. I can’t remember the last time someone held me. Warmth fills my chest and once again threatens to thaw the ice shards that have collected around my heart.

“I’m so glad you’re okay,” he whispers with so much relief I feel it in my soul. He was worried about me?

Taken aback and moved by his worry for me, I place my arms around